Key Takeaways:
- Karim Benzema terminated his contract with Al Hilal after making just 16 appearances and scoring 10 goals
- The 38-year-old striker is deliberating between joining another Saudi club, retiring from football, or moving to USA, with a return to Europe not being considered
- Benzema achieved a league and cup double with Al Ittihad in the 2024/2025 season and recently lifted a cup with Al Hilal
Saudi Spell Concludes Abruptly
Karim Benzema, who was crowned Ballon d’Or winner in 2022, is now without a club after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract with Al Hilal. The prolific French forward made just 16 appearances for the side, finding the net on 10 occasions before his unexpected departure.
Future Uncertain: Three Options Ahead
According Sportingpedia sources, Benzema is set to reveal his next step shortly, confirming that only three paths remain open to him. The former Real Madrid icon is focused exclusively on either continuing his career with another club in Saudi Arabia, hanging up his boots, or moving to MLS. A return to European football is firmly off the table at this time. News of Benzema’s exit from Al Hilal coincides with the club’s acquisition of Ollie Watkins.
🚨 KARIM BENZEMA A DÉJÀ TROIS PORTES DE SORTIE POUR QUITTER AL-HILAL ! 🇫🇷 👀
🇸🇦 Al-Ittihad
🇸🇦 Al-Shabab
🇺🇸 Un club de MLSLe Français exclut pour le moment un retour en Europe, notamment à l’OL. ❌
(🗞️ via @footmercato / @marca ) pic.twitter.com/IGDRXtmZwD
— Instant Foot ⚽️ (@lnstantFoot) August 31, 2026
Distinguished Career in Numbers
| Club | Seasons | Appearances | Goals | Trophies Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real Madrid | 14 | 648 | 354 | 25 |
| Al Ittihad | 2.5 | 87 | 57 | League & Cup (2024/2025) |
| Al Hilal | 0.5 | 16 | 10 | Cup (last season) |
Benzema became a legend during his 14-year tenure at Real Madrid, where he clocked 648 matches, ranking fifth in the club’s all-time appearances. With 354 goals, he sits second in Real Madrid’s scoring chart, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo.
His move to Saudi Arabia did not halt his passion for lifting silverware: he secured a league title and cup double with Al Ittihad in the 2024/2025 campaign and went on to raise the cup with Al Hilal in the previous season.
What Lies Ahead?
The football world now awaits Benzema’s announcement as he contemplates the final chapter of his illustrious career. Whether he extends his Saudi adventure, moves to MLS, or calls time on his playing days, the Frenchman’s legacy remains firmly intact.
